Zinc batteries last for more than 15,000 charge cycles
Amman2 min read
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Chinese researchers have found a new way to improve the performance of zinc-manganese dioxide batteries by introducing single cobalt atoms into the structure of the active material, which contributed to achieving high storage capacity and the ability to withstand more than 15,000 charge and discharge cycles, according to a study published in the journal "Nano-Micro Letters".
Traditional zinc-manganese batteries are used in many everyday devices, such as clocks, remote controls, toys, and flashlights, thanks to the availability of their materials and their ease of use. However, developing rechargeable versions could open the door to wider applications, especially in renewable energy storage and supporting backup power systems.
Cobalt changes the reaction mechanism
Researchers from the Beijing University of Chemical Technology relied on introducing single cobalt atoms into the structure of manganese dioxide, with the aim of modifying the atomic bonds and the electronic environment of the material.
The role of cobalt is not limited to adding a new element to the battery, but extends to changing the paths of chemical reactions, allowing for the active material to be utilized more efficiently during repeated charge and discharge cycles.
According to the study, the developed material achieved a specific capacity of 658 mAh/g, while exceeding 15,000 charge and discharge cycles, in results that indicate the possibility of combining high storage capacity with a long operational life.
Prospects for renewable energy storage
These results highlight the importance of controlling the electronic state of transition metals and engineering the atomic structure of electrode materials as promising paths for improving the performance of rechargeable batteries.
The technology may contribute in the future to developing more efficient systems for storing electricity produced from the sun and wind, in addition to supporting backup power systems.
However, the results achieved under laboratory conditions do not necessarily mean the technology is ready for commercial use; this requires further testing to evaluate the performance of the full battery, its stability and safety, and the feasibility of manufacturing its materials on a large scale.
This innovation reflects a research trend toward controlling the behavior of atoms and electrons inside batteries, rather than just changing their components, with the aim of improving energy storage efficiency and extending operational life.
